Rahul Gandhi's First Speech as Cong VP

Newly-appointed Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi stressed the need to change the centralised system which is unaccountable to the people, and respect the youths' demand for a greater role in decision-making. Highlights from the speech...

"Over the last 8 years this party has taught me a tremendous amount. I have learnt from senior leaders and younger leaders."

"Power is grossly centralized in our country. People empowered at the top only."

"Every single Indian will be supported by the Congress party."

"It does not matter how much wisdom you have, if no position, then you are nothing. This is the tragedy of India. Until we start respecting people for their knowledge and understanding, we will not progress."

"People who are corrupt, stand up and talk about eradicating corruption. Ppl who disrespect women, talk about women rights. There is a young and impatient India, that demands change. The answer is to completely rethink and transform the system."

"Building blocks of this new revolution have been put in place by PM, Congress President and Congress party. From today, Rahul Gandhi will work for everyone."

"It seems we have trouble following rules in the Congress. Sometimes even I ask myself how this party wins elections. Even the opposition, does not understand how we work. Our DNA is that of Hindustan."

"We need to get ready 40-50 leaders who can run the country. These leaders need to come from every state. Our Congress worker looks up, a leader drops in,loses, flies away. We need to change this. The worker needs to be respected."

"The day the voice of the people echos within us, we will be undefeatable."

"Last night my mother came to my room and cried. She cried because she understands that power so many people seek, is poison. We should not chase power for attributes of power, should use it to empower the voices. Nations are not built on schemes and plans, they are built on hope."

"The Congress party is now my life, the people of India are my life. Will fight for the people of India and this party. I will fight with everything I have."

Rahul Gandhi was named the Congress vice president on Saturday, making him officially the number two in the party after his mother and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi. (ANI)